1. A Tactical Coup: How Rogers and Emery Outfoxed United
Are match outcomes be misleading? That is the question. The Villans' triumphant run was extended versus Manchester United, but so did the persistent questions. Statistically, they were inferior by several measures – less attempts (12-15), reduced ball control (43-57), not as many golden opportunities (2-3). Once again, the victory was a slender one. Consistently, statistical models painted a different picture: reports suggest United were narrowly ahead 1.31-1.02. Yet the reality is games are determined by more than statistics. They are won by collective effort, shrewd management and moments of magic – and Villa possess each ingredient. Villa's emerging star might just be their sole standout, but he is performing as a timely gift. The Villa manager is shrewd, seasoned, five years ahead of his counterpart. Should Rogers have benefited from a defensive lapse, it was likely because the manager identified that his opponent was uncomfortable, and told Rogers to start wide, cut in and cause him problems. Individual brilliance and coaching, working together.
2. The Amorim Conundrum: Still Searching for Answers
Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 in late October, their fans began to believe again. They had won three league games consecutively for the initial occasion under their manager. Their position climbed to fourth. And the wins were impressive victories – over Brighton (a traditionally tricky opponent), Liverpool (on the road!) and Sunderland (at Old Trafford, versus a newly-promoted side, but still – a comfortable clean sheet). Their keeper provided stability, Bryan Mbeumo offered threat and there was a positive mood. But then United returned to poor form. In a run of eight matches, a mere pair of successes, six missed opportunities. Against Aston Villa they were superior for large periods without ever appearing likely to triumph. Yes, the Brazilian scored a fine effort, but he also failed to convert a golden opportunity. Yes, United were cursed by absentees (to influential figures), but they conceded soft goals. After 13 months in England, the coach continues to struggle with how to win consistently.
3. Arteta's Men Win Ugly to Return to the Summit
It was a late Saturday start on the holiday period but a glaring absence of finesse in the attacking areas made for a drab affair. For Everton, the issue came as no surprise with offensive players absent, and their star man failing to inspire an entire team by himself. In many respects it is remarkable that David Moyes’s side occupied a European spot in the table two weeks earlier given they have played the entire season without a reliable number nine. For Arsenal and Mikel Arteta, while he enjoyed a merited victory and a return to the top of the table, the deficiency should be equally concerning given their ambitions for the Premier League. Arteta insisted that victories will inevitably be more emphatic with hard work and perseverance. But it is fairly soon in the season for a team that can start with international stars, while leaving exciting options on the bench, to be relying on grinding out wins.
4. Guardiola's Strict Festive Regime for Champions
On Christmas Day the Catalan coach will conduct fitness tests to ensure his Manchester City players have not indulged too much. Guardiola said the players asked to enjoy a break after their 3-0 triumph but the request was denied because their display lacked quality. So they will recuperate, work for those who didn't feature, and following a short break, then brief training for the Nottingham Forest game. The manager outlined how improvements can be made. “My strength is deciphering what happens in the game, locating the gaps – if the players were in optimal spots, we could create more.” Guardiola will also enjoy a rest: “I will be on vacation with the family for celebrations. A trip to Barcelona is planned – it's a great city, the food is excellent.”
5. Liverpool's Joy Tempered by Isak Blow
Isak's clinical effort at Tottenham felt, for a fleeting moment, like a statement. This was the very purpose Liverpool splashed the cash for him to do, to break tight games with his movement and range of finishing, and the calmness with which he clipped in from an incisive ball boded superbly. So the scene of his substitution immediately, due to a reckless attempt, was a significant blow for the Dutch coach and a shame for any neutral who would like to see an extraordinary talent perform at his best again. It is believed Isak has sustained a fractured leg and he probably endures a long time on the sidelines. It would be a major blow with the Reds having quietly moved into the Champions League places, putting together a string of positive results featuring Isak’s initial goals in their colours. Their prospects appear heavily dependent on those of their record signing.
6. Penalty Debate Rages After Newcastle Draw
Managers often lament contentious refereeing decisions as a means of diverting the narrative from matters they wish to avoid discussing. The 13 points Newcastle have dropped from winning positions this season appears relevant. The Newcastle boss certainly did not seem particularly eager to mention that problematic pattern following his side’s collapse from a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they had to settle for a point in. Yet Howe was surely correct to highlight a decision made by the referee not to award his team a penalty following a blatant body check on Anthony Gordon. With the score then 2-1, a spot-kick could have swung the momentum. Was the decision to offer the Chelsea defender the doubt informed by Gordon’s reputation for being very clever at winning penalties and sometimes exaggerating? Comments by a well-known analyst was interesting. “He anticipates the contact,” he said. “He knows the challenge is coming and he’s waiting for it. I think he intends to hit the deck. But the nature of the contact there … that’s not shielding the ball.”
7. Wolves' Grim Relegation Reality
Brentford’s first away win this season spelled a welcome result for the Bees' boss. More than just enjoying the victory, Andrews sympathised with Wolves, the club he joined at 16. “A large chunk of my life was here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is beyond dire; statistical models state – perhaps generously – their likelihood of the drop at 99.17%, leaving nothing to play for beyond professionalism. A senior professional brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
